The Rosendin Foundation Awards $140,000 to Charlotte Nonprofits

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The Rosendin Foundation Awards $140,000 to Charlotte Nonprofits

The Rosendin Foundation, a dedicated 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to positively impacting communities and empowering individuals, announces the distribution of $140,000 in grants to 18 North Carolina nonprofits during a ceremony at Rosendin’s Huntersville office. The grants support organizations that advance The Foundation’s three pillars of community support, workforce development and environmental stewardship.

The funding provides critical lifelines to organizations serving North Carolina communities hit hard by rising costs and increased demand. The Rosendin Foundation grants will support veterans services, healthcare access, family support programs, food security initiatives, and workforce development at a time when these organizations face mounting pressure to serve more people with fewer resources.

“The Rosendin Foundation gets hundreds of grant applications from around the country, and this year we are seeing a greater need than ever before from nonprofits that support emotional, occupational, and nutritional health,” said Chandra Stewart, Executive Director of The Rosendin Foundation. “Each organization we’re supporting today makes a real difference in people’s lives, from helping veterans transition to civilian careers to providing safe havens for families escaping domestic violence. We’re honored to help them continue their vital work during a time when North Carolina families need these services more than ever.”

Haven Inc. received the largest grant of $20,000 for their domestic violence prevention and survivor support services. Veterans Bridge Home secured $19,000 to help veterans transition to civilian life and careers through housing assistance and job training programs.

Three organizations received grants of $10,000 each to expand their community impact. Carolina Breast Friends provides support for breast cancer patients and survivors. Crittenton serves pregnant and parenting teens through education and life skills programs. Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina addresses food insecurity throughout the Charlotte region. In addition, Matthews Free Medical Clinic received $9,000 to provide healthcare services for uninsured residents.

The Rosendin Foundation also granted $8,000 to She Built This City to support women in construction and trades. Ten organizations each received $5,000 grants: Brave Step Inc., Classroom Central Inc., Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region, Hope Haven Inc., KinderMourn Inc., Lions Services Inc., Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte, Safe Alliance Inc., Shining Hope Farms, and Special Olympics North Carolina Inc. Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont received $4,000 for workforce development programs.

Since 2020, The Rosendin Foundation has distributed more than $6.7 million to nearly 500 nonprofits nationwide. This charitable giving strategy grows alongside Rosendin’s business expansion, creating stronger connections between the company and communities where employees live and work.

George Washington’s “First Oval Office” Coming to North Carolina for America 250

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George Washington’s “First Oval Office” Coming to North Carolina for America 250

A traveling exhibit recreating George Washington’s Revolutionary War headquarters will arrive in eastern North Carolina later this month.

The First Oval Office Project, presented by the Museum of the American Revolution, will be on display at Tryon Palace from March 26 through March 28.

At the center of the exhibit is a full-scale, hand-stitched replica of Washington’s sleeping and office tent. During the American Revolution, the tent served as a mobile command center for the Continental Army.

Historians often refer to the structure as the “First Oval Office.” Inside the tent, Washington slept, wrote letters, and made critical wartime decisions.

Interpreters from the museum will guide visitors through the exhibit and explain Washington’s leadership during the conflict.

The event is part of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources America 250 NC initiative, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and highlights North Carolina’s role in the Revolution.

Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for youth and can be purchased online or at ticket offices at the North Carolina History Center and near the palace gates.

Fort Mill Planning Major Protest Over Silfab Solar After Recent Chemical Spills

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Fort Mill Planning Major Protest Over Silfab Solar After Recent Chemical Spills

Fort Mill residents are now planning a massive protest for this coming Monday (3/16) at the York County Council Meeting after 2 recent chemical spills at the factory to call on officials to revoke Silfab’s Certificate of Occupancy.

Organizers are urging community members to gather at 5:30 p.m. on March 16 before the York County Council meeting at 6 pm and to register online here. Protesters say they want council members to place the issue on the agenda and vote to revoke Silfab’s certificate of occupancy.

Silfab’s full list of chemicals and the quantities they would need to store on site.

The demonstration follows a recent vote by the Fort Mill School Board, which passed a resolution calling for all hazardous chemicals associated with the facility to be permanently removed. The board cited concerns about the plant’s proximity to local schools, including Flint Hill Elementary.

Protest organizers argue the facility is operating in a zoning district that does not allow the type of hazardous materials planned for the site. York County’s zoning code states that “Light Industrial does NOT include hazardous material treatment or storage facilities.” (York County Code §155.1301).

They also point to other provisions in the county’s zoning law. Under the code, “the Zoning Administrator must issue formal zoning compliance approval before permits are valid.” (York County Code §§155.1122–1123). In spite of numerous FOIA requests and private meetings, York County officials have still never produced a signed zoning compliance letter for Silfab’s operations – without one, all of Silfab’s permits and their Certificate of Occupancy would be legally void (according to SC Peterson v. Greenville County, 2011, “An invalid zoning permit issued in violation of applicable zoning laws confers no rights and is void ab initio”).

The Attorney General of South Carolina, Alan Wilson, has also confirmed that the York County Council has the authority to revoke Silfab’s CO if they do not have proper zoning approvals.

Organizers say the upcoming protest is meant to show council members the level of community concern and push them to take a formal vote on the project.

A New Earthquake Just Struck Off The Carolina Coast This Morning

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A New Earthquake Just Struck Off The Carolina Coast This Morning

A magnitude 2.0 earthquake just struck off the Carolina coast early this morning and may have been felt in parts of the Charlotte region. According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake occurred at approximately 3:48 a.m. EDT with an estimated depth of about 10.5 km beneath the surface.

Earthquakes in this region usually occur within the interior of the North American tectonic plate rather than along plate boundaries. Because of that geology, scientists say seismic waves in the eastern U.S. can travel farther than in western states.

Earthquakes have been increasing in frequency around the Charlotte region over the past few years. Last year, we experienced the largest earthquake in over 100 years when a 5.1 magnitude quake hit Sparta, NC, and since then, dozens of aftershocks have continued to rattle our state.

According to USGS.gov, “Moderately damaging earthquakes strike the inland Carolinas every few decades, and smaller earthquakes are felt about once each year or two.”

Have you felt any of the quakes?

Severe storms and tornado watch impact parts of the Charlotte region

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Severe storms and tornado watch impact parts of the Charlotte region

Update 3/12/2026 10:00am:

The National Weather Service just issued a new alert for Concord NC, Indian Trail NC and Monroe NC until 10:45 AM EDT:

Original article 3/12/2026 9:30am:

Severe thunderstorms are moving across the Charlotte region this morning as warnings remain in effect across parts of the area.

The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Chester County and eastern York County in South Carolina.

At 9:26 a.m., radar showed a line of storms stretching from southwest of York to southwest of Chester. The storms were moving northeast at about 45 mph.

Meteorologists warn the storms could produce wind gusts up to 60 mph, which may cause damage to trees and power lines.

Areas expected to be impacted include Rock Hill, York, Chester, Fort Mill, Tega Cay, Newport, Lesslie, McConnells, Richburg, and Lowrys.

A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 1 p.m. for parts of Upstate South Carolina.

Weather officials say tornadoes can form quickly within severe thunderstorms, so residents should remain alert.

Safety guidance recommends moving to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building if dangerous weather approaches.

Meanwhile, the North Carolina mountains are experiencing accumulating snowfall, creating a sharp contrast with the severe weather moving through the Piedmont.

Union County Invests in Future with New Stafford Corrugated Global HQ

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Union County Invests in Future with New Stafford Corrugated Global HQ

Union County recently approved an economic development incentive grant for a massive new $10 million 60,000 square foot manufacturing facility to be built in the Charlotte suburb of Indian Trail.

The new facility will become the global headquarters of Stafford Corrugated Products Inc., which is recognized as one of the largest box manufacturers in the United States.

“Our new facility significantly increases Stafford’s ability to inventory more products and that’s great news for our customers,” says Tony D’Aprile, Founder and CEO of Stafford “But it also gives us the ability to develop and create new products that are essential to the corrugated industry. Our reputation of being known as the ‘go to’ guys will be enhanced by our increased ability to respond to customer needs.” 

As per the official Union County records, the total value of these incentives is estimated to be around $190,000.

What do you think about the new project and county incentives? 

North Carolina Leaders Unveil Bold Plan to Make NC Public Schools Best in Nation by 2030

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North Carolina Leaders Unveil Bold Plan to Make NC Public Schools Best in Nation by 2030

North Carolina education leaders have just launched an ambitious new plan to make the state’s public schools the best in the nation by 2030. The initiative, called “Achieving Educational Excellence,” is the first joint strategic plan between the Department of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education in more than a decade.

The plan was shaped by extensive input from educators, families, and local leaders in all 100 counties. He also announced a statewide tour this fall to encourage public engagement.

“This is a bold plan that matches North Carolina’s potential to have the best public schools in the country,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice Green in a press release. “We created this strategic plan after crossing the state listening to parents, students and educators about their hopes and dreams for education. Now, with the State Board of Education’s unanimous approval, I’m eager to get to work with educators, families, partners and students to make North Carolina’s public schools the best in the nation.”

The plan sets measurable goals, including raising the statewide graduation rate to 92%, increasing average ACT scores to 20, and leading the nation in National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results by 2030. Progress will be tracked through quarterly public reports and a new statewide “Excellence Report Card.”

The plan focuses on eight key priorities:

  • Prepare each student for their next phase in life

  • Revere and retain public school educators

  • Enhance parent, caregiver, and community support

  • Ensure healthy, safe, and secure learning environments

  • Optimize operational excellence across districts

  • Lead transformative change in public education

  • Celebrate excellence in student and educator achievement

  • Galvanize public and private support for long-term investment

Several major initiatives are already underway. A $25 million Golden LEAF Foundation grant will help transform math instruction in rural middle schools. A new NC College Connect program will guarantee admission to state universities for students with a GPA of 2.8 or higher. The plan also includes expanded mental health support, Youth Mental Health First Aid training, a campaign to read 10 million books annually, and the creation of an endowment to fund two years of tuition-free postsecondary education.

If successful, the effort could significantly improve student outcomes, elevate the teaching profession, and position North Carolina as a national leader in public education.

Charlotte’s Infamous ‘Epicenter’ aka ‘Queen City Quarter’ Is Going Up For Sale Again

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Charlotte’s Infamous ‘Epicenter’ aka ‘Queen City Quarter’ Is Going Up For Sale Again

One of Uptown Charlotte’s most high-profile and troubled entertainment districts is about to hit the market, again. The complex now known as Queen City Quarter, formerly the EpiCentre, is expected to be listed for sale again in the coming weeks.

Washington, D.C.–based CWCapital is preparing to market the property at 210 E. Trade St., according to commercial mortgage-backed securities loan documents.

The property is currently owned by Deutsche Bank, which foreclosed on the complex in March 2022. The bank later purchased the property at auction for $95 million as the sole bidder.

Developers previously attempted to reposition the aging nightlife hub into Queen City Quarter, a walkable mixed-use destination focused on restaurants, retail, and public gathering space.

However, efforts to revive the site have struggled, and multiple redevelopment attempts over the past decade have failed to fully restore the complex’s former popularity.

Now, real estate brokers are hoping upcoming sale could give a new owner the chance to breathe life back into one of Uptown Charlotte’s most recognizable properties.

Another Sewage Spill just hit Lake Norman After Contractor Damages Sewer Line

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Another Sewage Spill just hit Lake Norman After Contractor Damages Sewer Line

Another sewage spill has just occurred on Lake Norman after a wastewater line was damaged in Cornelius, according to local officials.

The overflow happened near Harbor Light Boulevard, where officials estimate about 100 gallons of sewage entered the lake.

Officials with Charlotte Water said a contractor accidentally damaged a low-pressure sewer pipe, triggering the spill.

Many homes along Lake Norman rely on low-pressure sewer systems that pump wastewater to Charlotte Water’s treatment plants.

Although this spill resulted from construction damage, officials say many sewage spills can be prevented with proper household habits.

Charlotte Water urges residents to throw items like wipes, paper towels, hair, cotton swabs, feminine products, dental floss, coffee grounds, and excess food in the trash.

Only toilet paper should be flushed, officials said.

Used oils and grease should also be taken to a full-service recycling center instead of poured down drains.

Anyone who suspects a sewage spill is encouraged to call 311 or 704-336-7600, which are monitored 24 hours a day.

University City Wine Fest Returns for Its 10th Annual Celebration on April 11

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University City Wine Fest Returns for Its 10th Annual Celebration on April 11

University City Partners, the nonprofit focused on strengthening University City through economic development and community-building events and activations, is proud to announce the details of its 10th annual University City Wine Fest, returning on April 11th. The weekend will kick off with a Royal Wine Dinner on April 9th and Wine on the Water experience on April 10th. More details and ticket information can be found here.

Royal Wine Dinner on April 9 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. ET: The Royal Wine dinner will return this year, taking place at one of University City’s newest restaurants and a Charlotte favorite, Sol’ Delish. Menu and ticket details will be announced closer to the event.

Wine on the Water on April 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET: Set against the scenic backdrop of the Boardwalk’s lakefront,  Wine on the Water offers guests a one-of-a-kind date night made easy. It’s the perfect excuse to sip on wines, listen to live music, and soak in the views. The wines provided are brut, pinot grigio, brut rosé, and a red blend. There will be two times available for booking: 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets cover two people and cost $45.

Wine Fest on April 11 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET: Attendees are invited to savor over 100 wines from North Carolina’s top wineries and vendors, as well as a curated selection of craft brews from the Queen City’s favorite breweries, including but not limited to Armored Cow, Pilot, and Petty Thieves. Cocktails will also be available, served by iconic local bartenders from Lucky Dog, Side Eye, Sol Delish, and Soul Gastrolounge.

There are three types of tickets available, which can be purchased in advance or on the day of the event, though same-day availability is not guaranteed.

  • General Admission ($35): Four hours of boundless wine, craft brew, and cocktail tastings, and a festival souvenir sampling glass. Starting at 2 p.m. ET.

  • Early Admission ($45): Five hours of boundless wine, craft brew, and cocktail tastings, and a festival souvenir sampling glass. Starting at 1 p.m. ET.

  • VIP Admission ($500): Early entrance, ten tickets for a special VIP experience with a reserved covered table perfect to kick your feet up and enjoy some shade, four bottles of wine, unlimited tastings, and a souvenir glass. Entrance starting at 1 p.m. ET.

This year’s festival is brought to life by incredible sponsors, Greystar, Tito’s, and Mi Campo, who will help make the day a success and believe in the community of University City. Those interested in getting involved as a volunteer or a sponsor, please fill out the contact form here.

For all events, all attendees must be 21+ and present a valid government-issued ID for entry, and those under 21+ must be accompanied by an adult. A portion of this year’s proceeds will benefit University City Foundation, the funding and fundraising tool to advance community development, community building, and placemaking programs and projects in the University City market area. For more information, visit https://universitycitywinefest.org/ or follow @univcitywinefest on Instagram.

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